WeatherHurricane

Actions

Fiona's impact continues to be felt across Puerto Rico

Posted
and last updated

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — For loved ones here in South Florida, Hurricane Fiona continues to create anxious moments for those who are trying to stay in contact.

Much of Fiona's impact continues to be felt across Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic where Fiona triggered major flooding and mudslides.

Those who are riding out the storm told us this time around is different because of the heavy and persistent rainfall.

The National Guard responded and rescued hundreds of people who were stranded.

For many, the storm is a grim reminder of Hurricane Maria which destroyed much of Puerto Rico five years ago.

"It's important because it's livelihood," said Eddie Rivera. “You have people that probably can't cook, people that are living in poverty on the island probably wondering how they’re going to eat, people are waiting hours and hours just for fuel."

Now the slow and careful recovery process will start to take shape. The island nation’s governor says it could take days before power is restored.

WPTV meteorologists said Fiona won't pose a threat to Florida, but high surf and rip currents are expected along the East Coast.

WPTV First Alert Weather Spotters Sponsored By: Manatee Lagoon

About WPTV NewsChannel 5

Join WPTV First Alert Weather Spotters team

Jonathan Diego

Hurricane

Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne: 20 Years Later

JAMES_SURF_FORECAST_webgraphic.png

Surfing Blog

Surf Forecast: Going flat for Thanksgiving week

James Wieland

2024 STORM NAMES

Alberto

Beryl

Chris

Debby

Ernesto

Francine

Gordon

Helene

Isaac

Joyce

Kirk

Leslie

Milton

Nadine

Oscar

Patty

Rafael

Sara

Tony

Valerie

William

TERMS TO KNOW

TROPICAL STORM WATCH: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified coastal area within 48 hours.

TROPICAL STORM WARNING: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the specified coastal area within 36 hours.

HURRICANE WATCH: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible somewhere within the specified coastal area. A hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

HURRICANE WARNING: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area. A hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.